Tag: Title protection

The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) grants the RDN credential as a legally protected designation, enforcing its use to signify a qualified expert. This protects both the public and credential holders from misrepresentation. Unlike the term 'nutritionist,' which is often unregulated in the United States.

In many countries, including large parts of the United States and the United Kingdom, the title 'nutritionist' is not legally protected, meaning anyone can use it, regardless of their qualifications. This lack of legal protection creates a significant distinction between an unregulated nutritionist and a regulated professional, such as a Registered Dietitian (RD).

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, anyone can call themselves a "nutritionist" in many jurisdictions, as the title is often not legally protected. This lax regulation is in stark contrast to the highly regulated and protected title of a Registered Dietitian, making it critical for consumers to understand the difference. Can anyone refer to themselves as a nutritionist? The answer is complex and depends heavily on location.